2005
Acura
TSX

Base Sedan

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Review

2005
Acura
TSX Review

A well-rounded top pick among affordable sport sedans.

Reviewed by Automotive on
12/20/2005

Overview

The TSX joined the Acura family in 2004, filling the space between the RSX sport coupe and the midsize TL luxury-performance sedan. A sturdy, front-wheel-drive sport sedan, it provides a generous blend of luxury and performance that competes well with cars like the Honda Accord. Designed with drivers in mind, it keeps things simple and straightforward with only one engine offering; a 200-hp four-cylinder that sends out its generous amount of power through a well-designed transmission system. As a small, sporty sedan, it appeals largely to hands-on performance drivers who prefer manual shifting, and the six-speed manual transmission is more than satisfying. The optional five-speed automatic also has a sequential sport-shift feature that allows for manual overdrive. It is well priced for its class with plenty to offer for the dollar. A full range of luxury features and high-tech equipment, both inside and out, make this sedan as enjoyable to ride in as it is to drive. Any buyer looking for a luxuriously sporty experience without breaking the bank will find it to be a worthy contender.

The Range

What's New

A handful of upgraded technological features are added to the 2005 Acura TSX’s profile. The stereo system now features XM Satellite radio, while heated door mirrors and a four-way power passenger seat are now on the list of standard features. The steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls are now illuminated for easier use.

Exterior

The 2005 Acura TSX’s sporty personality is represented in its aggressive design and strong appearance. The characteristic five-sided Acura grill is flanked by HID headlights with low-set air intakes that are reminiscent of racing brake ducts. The standard alloy wheels hold 17-inch V-rated all-season performance tires and chrome wheels are also optional. It measures 183.3 inches long and 57.3 inches tall. It comes with a long list of available exterior features. Standard equipment includes a front air dam, power windows, power adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, interval wipers, and a rear window defogger. A tow hitch receiver is optional, as are mud guards, a rear spoiler, and fog lights.

Interior

The 2005 Acura TSX’s deeply bolstered, wonderfully comfortable seats are upholstered with perforated leather, as is the steering wheel. Legroom is a bit tight for adults in the rear seats, however. The list of standard exterior equipment includes cruise control, a tachometer, tilt steering, a leather steering wheel with mounted controls, dual-zone automatic climate control, and power-adjustable, heated seats. An eight-speaker 360-watt premium audio system comes standard, along with a six-CD changer and optional cassette player. A built-in navigation system with voice recognition is also optional. This system comes with a dashboard touch screen, which also holds the audio and climate controls and can be more cumbersome to use than simple knobs.

Performance & Handling

The 2005 Acura TSX houses a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which generates a steady 200 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. The engine features the i-VTEC intelligent valve-control system, which is meant to monitor and control valve timing to improve performance over a broad power band. Smoother acceleration is also provided through a drive-by-wire throttle-control system. The TSX’s engine can be paired with either a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift provision.

With its responsive engine and smooth shifting, the 2005 Acura TSX has the feeling of a family vehicle more than a sporty performance sedan. Both the manual and automatic transmission options provide easy, eager gear changes, while the overall drive quality is quiet and controlled. The TSX provides respectable maneuverability and is much gentler on smooth surfaces than many sport sedans. On imperfect pavement; however, the stiff suspension does make for a rockier ride. Fortunately, the well-appointed seating provides plenty of support for all occupants, even in rougher driving conditions.

Safety

The 2005 Acura TSX offer anti-lock brakes for two or four wheels. Traction control and stability control are also provided. The list of standard safety equipment for all TSX trim levels also includes power windows and locks, child safety door locks, a vehicle anti-theft system, trunk anti-trap device, and keyless entry. Front side airbags are included on all models, as are side head curtain airbags. It scored five out of five stars in NHTSA crash tests for frontal driver and passenger protection as well as front side protection. Four stars were awarded for rear side crash protection.